How Has Modesto’s New Air Unit Made a Positive Impact on Public Safety? Part 1 | Ep 372

Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor Plus. 

In this episode we are heading to Modesto, California, to hear how a brand-new air support unit was built from the ground up, and how it’s already changing the way the department fights crime, protects officers, and serves the community.

Lt Mike Hicks and Lt Kalani Souza were both involved from the opening decision to start an air unit. They share the process and the many challenges involved within funding, airframe choice, acquiring the airframe, and then finding to right crews members.

They also discuss the immediate benefits of air support in supporting patrol operations including a dramatic reduction in crime.

Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Onboard Systems & Hoist & Winch and Spectrolab.